Real Sociedad and Athletic Club are set to face off in the Basque Derby on January 13, with both teams vying for a place in the top four of LALIGA.

The fixture is known as 'the friendly derby' due to the good relationship between fans, despite tensions over transfers fueled by their unique recruitment policies.

Tickets for the match sold out within two hours of going on general sale, indicating high anticipation from Basque fans.

Real Sociedad will travel to take on Athletic Club in what promises to be an intense battle for a place in the top four of LALIGA. The matchup has been affectionately labelled 'the friendly derby', reflecting the good relationship between fans despite tensions over transfers fuelled by their unique recruitment policies. Both clubs have strict rules regarding player recruitment, requiring strong links to their local area or upbringing in the Basque Country.

The game is expected to draw a record attendance at San Mames stadium, with tickets selling out within two hours of going on general sale. This reflects high anticipation among Basque fans for this important fixture.

With only a sixpoint gap separating them in European soccer race next season, there's much at stake when these two sides meet. Additionally, this year could mark the first time since 1997/98 that both teams finish in top six of league standings.

Overall balance shows Athletic leading with 77 victories compared to La Real's 60 while seven local boys could feature alongside coach Imanol Alguacil representing Real Sociedad against Ernesto Valverde who works as Athletico coach throughout his career .